This job is based in central accounts, or treasuries, in all types of local authority. It covers most of the aspects of financial work in the corporate sector and in other services, such as education and environment that manage their own budgets. Accounting technicians work alongside accountancy assistants, finance assistants, finance clerks and finance officers assisting the authority accountant in his role as ‘keeper of the public purse’.

Work Environment

Accounting technicians spend most of their time in front of a computer or, if they are employed on audit work, may visit other departments to find out how accounts are kept.
They work a standard 37-hour week, but must be flexible when overtime is called for to meet statutory deadlines like the end of the tax year.

Daily Activities

Much of this is routine accounting tasks such as bookkeeping, keeping financial records, producing and analysing figures, helping to prepare audit accounts, helping with the allocation of annual budgets – to be allocated to schools for example – pension funds and applications for grants from the UK government or European Union (EU) funds.

Accounting technicians also adjudicate over invoices or staff expenses claims when an accountancy assistant spots any mistakes or bad practice. Senior accounting technicians are responsible for the work of several accountancy assistants. They work with the accountants to ensure the council’s accounts are correct and the most economic use is made of resources.

One of the key differences between an accounting technician’s job and other positions below accountant level is that it could include working on special projects such as research into new areas of work and technical procedures. In addition they may be required to provide accountancy support to closure of accounts and budget preparation as well as mortgage administration.

Skills & Interests

Accounting technicians must have:

• good team working skills
• an aptitude for financial work
• effective written and verbal communication ability
• organisational ability
• an understanding of the need for confidentiality.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal requirements. All Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualifications are open-access.

Estimated salary range

£19,200 – £21,300

Please note that salary information is a guide only and there may be local agreements in place. For further information about salaries for particular positions, please contact your local council directly.

Future prospects & opportunities

With further training and experience, accounting technicians can take examinations and qualify as accountants.

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